Cannabis Strains For Inflammatory Bowel Disease

Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) is an excruciatingly painful gastrointestinal condition. Individuals with IBD are constantly in pain and unable to enjoy food, on top of having to go to the bathroom so often.

IBD refers to a group of conditions that all have one thing in common: inflammation in the intestines. The two main kinds of IBD are ulcerative colitis and Crohn’s disease. The symptoms of IBD will differ depending on the affected area in the intestinal tract. These usually include constipation or diarrhea, abdominal cramping, chronic abdominal pain, malaise, fatigue, weight loss, fever, sweating, growth retardation, and blood stools.

If IBD is left untreated, it can cause many other complications including a ruptured bowel, internal bleeding, perianal disease, obstruction of the bowels, a toxic megacolon, and malnutrition. What’s worse is that IBD can also increase the risk for developing colon cancer and affect other organs.

Statistics show that 1.6 million Americans suffer from IBD. The typical course of treatment is usually focused on stopping inflammation, which is the root cause for most symptoms and the pain associated with IBD. But the pharmaceutical drugs that are used for IBD come with numerous side effects including stomach pain, heartburn, headaches, cataracts, liver or kidney problems, dizziness, high blood pressure, bleeding, increased risk for infections, allergic reactions, and so much more.

Fortunately, cannabis has shown to be helpful in treating the symptoms of IBD. This is because we have an endocannabinoid system which helps regulate important bodily functions, including gut health. Cannabis not only stops inflammation, but it also addresses pain, weight loss, and sleep problems.

These are the top 5 strains for treating IBD:

Critical Mass, the result of combining Skunk #1 and Afghani, is an earthy indica that can is beneficial in reducing inflammation, pain, and treating insomnia. With THC levels of around 19-22%, Critical Mass offers a mild euphoria but with potent medicinal properties that individuals with IBD will find beneficial. A few puffs of Critical Mass will go a long way; but make sure to medicate with this in the late afternoons or evenings because as soon as it fades, it’s known to induce sleepiness.

Pineapple Express is a famous strain known not just for its delicious tropical taste and aroma but for its far-reaching therapeutic benefits. Pineapple Express is helpful for treating IBS-related pain, and will also give you the munchies. If you’re struggling to eat food during your treatment, a few puffs of this strain will have you reaching out for food in no time. This hybrid is loved by patients for delivering a balanced, relaxing high that is often positive and fun. Pineapple Express is a great all-around strain for both daytime and nighttime use.

Charlotte’s Web packs a punch when it comes to treating inflammation. This world-famous strain is famous for its potent CBD content and little to no THC content, which means that when you medicate with this you can enjoy all its therapeutic benefits without getting high. For many patients, IBD or otherwise, Charlotte’s Web is a terrific choice. It’s also widely used for the treatment of anxiety, epilepsy, and pain. However, use with caution if it’s your first time since Charlotte’s Web has been known to leave a headband-like pain. The best way to go about medicating with this is to start with small doses and see how you go afterward.

Skywalker is an extremely valuable cannabis strain for pain and insomnia. This strong indica is well-known among patients because it not only does the job, but it also leaves a desirable high. Expect to feel a relaxing buzz that will make you feel like you’re on a soft cloud, far from the stresses of life and the pains of your condition. While you feel euphoric, Skywalker’s cannabinoid profile is working hard within your body to knock out the symptoms of IBD.

Lemon Haze is an uplifting, refreshing sativa that provides relief from pain, fatigue, and appetite loss. If IBD is causing you to feel lethargic and lose motivation for life, you can count on Lemon Haze to do the trick. It has a mild THC content ranging from 15 to 20%, so make sure to pace yourself when medicating with this excellent daytime strain. Be prepared with a handful of your favorite healthy snacks, because Lemon Haze is known to bring on a strong case of the munchies.

Have you used cannabis to treat IBD? Share your experience in the comments below!

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